The project started upon the decision of the UNECE Committee on Human Settlements in September 2002. The preparatory mission to Armenia took place in October 2002 and the research mission of the international team of experts was undertaken in February 2003. National experts responded to the queries and requests of the international team during and after the mission. Project expenses were covered by extrabudgetary funds, which had been provided by the Netherlands and the Czech Republic. The successful conclusion of the project would not have been possible without this generous support.